HESI Fundamental Practice Exam Related

Review HESI Fundamental Practice Exam related questions and content

Following change-of-shift report on an orthopedic unit, which client should the nurse see first?

  • A. 16-year-old who had an open reduction of a fractured wrist 10 hours ago
  • B. 20-year-old in skeletal traction for 2 weeks since a motorcycle accident
  • C. 72-year-old recovering from surgery after a hip replacement 2 hours ago
  • D. 75-year-old who is in skin traction prior to planned hip pinning surgery
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The 72-year-old recovering from surgery after a hip replacement 2 hours ago should be seen first due to the potential for immediate post-operative complications. This patient is in the immediate postoperative period and requires close monitoring for any signs of complications such as bleeding, infection, or impaired circulation. The other patients are relatively stable compared to the patient who just had surgery and therefore can wait for assessment and care without immediate risk. The 16-year-old had surgery ten hours ago, which is longer than the 72-year-old and is at a lower risk for immediate complications. The 20-year-old in skeletal traction for two weeks is stable in his current condition. The 75-year-old in skin traction before planned surgery does not require immediate attention as the surgery has not yet taken place.